US Patent 10052984 Extended stroke energy attenuator

Methods and apparatus are provided for an energy attenuating vehicle seating system that includes a seat configured for guided motion relative to a vehicle compartment over a stroking distance, and an energy attenuating component with a first end attached to the seat, a second end configured for attachment to the vehicle compartment, and an intermediate point configured for guided motion relative to the vehicle compartment. The energy attenuating component is configured to remain rigid and prevent the seat from moving under loads less than a predetermined threshold value, yet deform in a progressive, predictable manner in response to a load exceeding the threshold.